Less than an hour’s drive north from Elkins is Tucker County. Dolly Sods Wilderness extends into Tucker County, offering hiking trails and fantastic views. The small towns of Davis and Thomas are a hot-spot for art galleries, music, and crafts. Nearby are Canaan Valley Resort State Park and Blackwater Falls State Park, home to the most photographed waterfall in the state.

Blackwater Falls

Also to the north is Barbour County. View historic architecture at Adaland Mansion and the Philippi Covered Bridge, located next to the Barbour County Historical Museum. Located in this county is Audra State Park. 

Audra State Park extends into neighboring Upshur County. To learn more about West Virginia’s wildlife, visit the West Virginia Wildlife Center.  Also located in Upshur County is the small town of Buckhannon, home to the Strawberry Festival and West Virginia Wesleyan College.

Seneca Rocks, located in Pendleton County, is one of the most popular rock-climbing destinations in the region. See the iconic cliff face from the Discovery Center or hike to the top. Participate in a guided climb at Nelson Rocks or hike along the North Fork Mountain. Nearby, go underground at Seneca Caverns or Smoke Hole Caverns, both offering cavern tours. 

Seneca Rocks

The Durbin & Greenbrier Valley Railroad also runs excursion trains in Cass Scenic Railroad State Park and the town of Durbin, both located in Pocahontas County. The Green Bank Observatory, home to one of the world’s largest radio telescopes, hosts tours and educational events. Take a drive on the Highland Scenic Highway and explore Cranberry Wilderness. The Greenbrier River Trail is a great option for hikers, cyclists and equestrians. 

Less than an hour’s drive west of Elkins lies the town of Weston, where you can tour the one-of-a-kind Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum. Once a thriving glassware manufacturer, Weston is now home to the Museum of American Glass and artisans like Appalachian Glass. Tour Lambert’s Winery and sample their selection of wines. 

Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum

Elkins-Randolph County is the heart of West Virginia ski country.  There are multiple nearby ski resorts, all within 50 miles of Elkins: Snowshoe Mountain, White Grass, Canaan Valley Resort State Park and Timberline Mountain.

Whether you are looking to hit the slopes, catch magnificent mountain views, or take a stroll through history, Elkins-Randolph County is the perfect place to stay.